Best Near South Side Public Elementary Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 1,168 students in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago, IL.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Near South Side are South Loop Elementary School and Perspectives Chtr - Joslin Campus. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
The neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago, IL public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 24% (versus the Illinois public elementary school average of 27%), and reading proficiency score of 24% (versus the 30% statewide average).
Minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Illinois public elementary school average of 56% (majority Hispanic).

Best Public Elementary Schools in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago, IL (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
South Loop Elementary School
(Math: 45% | Reading: 44%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
1212 S Plymouth Ct
Chicago, IL 60616
(773) 534-8690
Gr: PK-8 | 840 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 70%
Rank: #22.
Perspectives Chtr - Joslin Campus
Charter School
(Math: ≤5% | Reading: 6-9%)
Rank:
1/
10
Bottom 50%
1930 S Archer Ave
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 225-7400
Gr: 6-12 | 334 students

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago, IL?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago, IL include South Loop Elementary School and Perspectives Chtr - Joslin Campus.
How many public elementary schools are located in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago?
2 public elementary schools are located in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago.
What is the racial composition of students in the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago?
the neighborhood of Near South Side, Chicago public elementary schools minority enrollment is 82% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Illinois public elementary schools average of 56% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

Helping Children Overcome First-Week School Anxiety
Helping Children Overcome First-Week School Anxiety
Learn practical strategies to help children overcome first-week school anxiety, with expert-backed tips for parents and educators.
Public School Immunization Requirements 2026–2027
Public School Immunization Requirements 2026–2027
Learn public school immunization and health requirements for 2026–2027, including vaccines, exemptions, and state policy updates.
Public Schools in a Minute: 2026 Snapshot Guide
Public Schools in a Minute: 2026 Snapshot Guide
A clear 2026 snapshot of public schools in the U.S., including enrollment, funding, trends, and what families should know.

Quick Links